Ted Turner is survived by five children, 14 grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.
Turner transformed the television news industry with the launch of CNN in 1980, introducing the world’s first 24 hour news channel. The network reshaped broadcasting by delivering continuous breaking news coverage and gained worldwide prominence during its reporting of the Gulf War in 1990 and 1991.
Born in Ohio, Turner became known for his outspoken personality and earned the nickname “Mouth of the South.” Over the years, he built a vast media empire that included cable television’s first superstation along with major entertainment channels focused on movies and cartoons.
His influence extended beyond media into sports as well. Turner purchased the Atlanta Braves in 1976 and played a major role in shaping the franchise into its modern form.
Turner’s idea of delivering live news coverage to audiences around the globe established him as one of the most influential figures in modern media. His vision fundamentally changed how people consumed news in real time.
In 2018, shortly before his 80th birthday, Turner revealed that he had been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, a progressive neurological disorder. He was also hospitalised in early 2025 with a mild case of pneumonia before later recovering at a rehabilitation centre.
CNN chairman and chief executive officer Mark Thompson paid tribute to Turner, describing him as fearless, decisive, and deeply committed to his vision. Thompson said Turner’s legacy would always remain central to CNN’s identity and called him the giant upon whose shoulders the network stands.
Outside of business, Turner was widely recognised for his philanthropic and environmental efforts. He founded the United Nations Foundation to support the work of the UN and was an outspoken advocate for nuclear disarmament and conservation.
A passionate environmentalist, Turner also became one of the largest private landowners in the United States. To help educate younger audiences about protecting the planet, he created the animated series Captain Planet and the Planeteers.
In 1991, Time named Turner its Man of the Year, recognising his impact on global events and journalism. Although he later sold his media networks to Time Warner and stepped away from the industry, he continued to describe CNN as the greatest achievement of his life.
